Dr. Robert François Marie Riche, who graduated in obstetrics and gynaecology from Grenoble Alpes University and completed advanced training in laparoscopic surgery at Clermont Auvergne University and Aix-Marseille University, has been using the da Vinci Xi robotic system at FV Hospital to perform highly precise procedures.

Riche providing counselling to a patient at FV Hospital. Photo: FV

After many years working in France, he came to Vietnam in the early 2000s. Riche previously served as head of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at FV Hospital from 2004 to 2008, before continuing to provide professional advice to various healthcare systems in Ho Chi Minh City. According to Riche, obstetrics and gynaecology is one of the specialities that demands a high degree of precision in surgery.

A woman’s pelvis contains several vital organs – including the uterus, ovaries, bladder, and rectum – located in close proximity and connected by a complex network of blood vessels and nerves. As a result, each surgery aims to remove damaged tissue while preserving as much of the reproductive organs as possible.

“In obstetrics and gynaecology, simply curing a disease is not enough,” Riche explained. For him, every surgery must be geared towards protecting the patient’s future – especially that of young women who wish to become mothers.

It is from this understanding that doctors consistently prioritise conservative surgical methods when conditions permit: from removing tumours while preserving the ovaries, preserving the uterus in the treatment of fibroids, to early-stage cancer intervention while maintaining the patient’s fertility.

“When I started working at FV in 2004, obstetric and gynaecological surgery was primarily open or performed vaginally. From around 2005 onwards, laparoscopic surgery gradually became more popular due to its advantages of being less invasive, reducing pain, and shortening recovery time for patients,” said Riche.

However, for complex cases located deep within the pelvic region – where surgical space is limited, and many important anatomical structures are concentrated, laparoscopic surgery still has certain limitations. The emergence of the da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system has opened up new possibilities, especially in the treatment of complex obstetric and gynaecological diseases.

Compared to traditional laparoscopic surgery, the da Vinci Xi robotic system offers several significant advantages. The robotic arm’s flexible rotation and absolute vibration resistance enable surgeons to perform stable and precise procedures, even in tight and challenging surgical spaces. Meanwhile, high-resolution 3D images allow doctors to clearly observe the intricate anatomical structures in the pelvic region.

Riche in the operating room equipped with the da Vinci Xi robotic system. Photo: FV

No matter how advanced the technology, the effectiveness of robotic surgery still depends on the experience and skill of the surgeon. With over 30 years of experience in obstetrics and gynaecology, Riche is utilising the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system to great effect, transforming this technology into a powerful tool to assist in many complex surgical procedures.

Riche with the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system. Photo: FV

According to Riche, robotic surgery is particularly useful in treating complex gynaecological diseases such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, genital prolapse, or early-stage gynaecological cancer. These cases require extremely precise surgical procedures to both remove the damage and preserve the reproductive organs as much as possible.

In robotic surgery, doctors typically only need to make about four small incisions, each approximately 8mm long, in the abdominal wall to insert the instruments. Thanks to its minimal invasiveness, patients typically experience less pain, less blood loss, and faster recovery; hospital stays can be shortened from 7 to 8 days for open surgery to approximately 2 to 3 days.

During a recent robotic surgery observation and practice trip to Malaysia, Riche also monitored many complex cases that were effectively treated, such as endometriosis with a large tumour that was surgically treated in about 45 minutes, or uterine fibroids with complex pelvic adhesions that were completed in about 75 minutes This significantly shortens the surgical time compared to traditional methods.

“90 per cent of current obstetric and gynaecological diseases can be treated with robots. The biggest advantage is that, despite having a level of safety comparable to traditional endoscopy, robotic surgery dramatically reduces the rate of needing to switch to open surgery: from 10 per cent to less than 1 per cent,” Riche said.

He also noted that robotic surgery does not apply to tumours that are too large – 15 to 20 cm – or malignant ovarian tumours that require complete removal.

According to Riche, robotic surgery has become a routine procedure in many developed countries. “Obstetrics and gynaecology require precision and finesse in every operation, and robots are key.”

The French expert also expressed his hope that more and more women in Vietnam will have the opportunity to access this advanced surgical technology, “Because the ultimate goal of treatment is not just to cure the disease, but also to help women maintain their health, confidence, and preserve their ability to become mothers when conditions permit.”

For consultation and examination of obstetric and gynaecological diseases using the da Vinci Xi robotic system with Dr. Robert Francois Marie Riche, readers can contact FV Hospital at 06 Nguyen Luong Bang Street, Tan My Ward (formerly District 7), Ho Chi Minh City or contact via phone number (028) 3511 3333

Race against time: FV doctors save elderly patient from stroke and acute myocardial infarction An 80-year-old man suffering from both a stroke and an acute myocardial infarction was saved within minutes thanks to FV Hospital’s 24/7 “Golden Hour” cardiac response team and international-standard Cathlab.

FV Hospital’s integrated care model proves comprehensive and effective The intensive care unit (ICU) is often seen as the frontline in the battle for patients’ lives, where the collaboration between multiple specialities determines success. At FV Hospital, a multidisciplinary, comprehensive care model has demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in treating critically ill patients.

Robotic surgery proves effective for complex thoracic case at FV Hospital Doctors at FV Hospital have used the da Vinci Xi robotic system to successfully remove a large esophageal tumour from a patient while preserving the oesophagus, demonstrating the growing role of robotic surgery in treating complex thoracic conditions.

On March 20, the company announced that 10 passenger buses – including both internal combustion and electric engine models – had been shipped as part of a contract for 300 vehicles to be exported to Thailand in 2026. The milestone underscores the manufacturer’s production capacity and the growing regional recognition of Vietnamese-made automobile products.

Researched and developed by Kim Long Motor’s engineering team, the buses are designed to meet Thailand’s terrain, transport infrastructure, and customer requirements. With a localisation rate exceeding 80 per cent at the company’s Hue factory, the vehicles qualify for tax exemptions when imported into Thailand and across ASEAN markets.

Among the vehicles being shipped, the 12m Kim Long 99-seat buses stand out with their contemporary design and upgraded amenities, catering to the high-quality passenger transport segment.

The buses are equipped with a new-generation YUCHAI K11 engine designed for strong and stable performance. Fuel consumption of just 19–21 litres per 100km helps keep operating costs competitive. The integrated body and chassis design is researched and optimised using modern design and simulation software to enhance load capacity, reduce vehicle weight, and adapt to diverse operating conditions in Thailand.

In contrast to products that rely on fragmented supply chains, the chassis and YUCHAI K11 engine of Kim Long’s seated buses are manufactured at the company’s Hue factory, offering a competitive advantage by ensuring consistent quality while strengthening supply chain control.

Alongside traditional internal combustion models, Kim Long Motor has also exported 12m electric buses to Thailand – a significant step in the development of green, environmentally friendly commercial vehicles.

The electric bus is equipped with a new BYD battery system, with average power consumption of just 0.8 kWh per km. The battery pack is produced at Kim Long Motor’s commercial electric vehicle battery plant in Hue.

With modern battery technology, the bus can travel more than 400km on a 90 per cent charge, supported by regenerative braking to optimise energy efficiency. The solution enables smooth and stable operation while significantly lowering operating costs compared with traditional vehicles.

The models’ energy efficiency and reduced emissions align with the green transportation trend and support Thailand’s push towards clean energy transition.

With this shipment, Kim Long Motor has taken a step towards establishing its manufacturing capabilities and product quality in international markets. The company aims to strengthen collaboration with strategic partners, advance development of environmentally friendly vehicles, and enhance competitiveness as it works towards becoming a recognised commercial vehicle brand in the region.

Beyond accelerating exports, Kim Long Motor is investing in a comprehensive factory system covering research and development, component manufacturing, vehicle frames, engines, and electric vehicle batteries.

By managing its value chain, the company aims to ensure consistent product quality, control costs, and tailor products to specific market requirements. This provides a foundation for increasing competitiveness, accelerating product rollout, and deepening integration into global supply chains.

With a clear focus on sustainable development, Kim Long Motor is positioning itself as a Vietnamese vehicle brand ready to integrate and compete internationally.

Kim Long Motor and BYD Battery start electric vehicle battery plant in Hue On January 27, Kim Long Motor, in collaboration with BYD Battery, held the groundbreaking ceremony for the BYD battery manufacturing plant at Kim Long’s manufacturing and assembly industrial park, with a total investment of $130 million.

Kim Long Motor and AOJ Suzhou enter strategic partnership Kim Long Motor and AOJ Suzhou signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Ho Chi Minh City on February 14.

Kim Long Motor pioneering fuel-efficient engines and green transition Recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have continued to raise risks for the global energy market, with diesel prices rising sharply and unpredictably, placing pressure on fuel-intensive sectors such as long-distance passenger transport.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to fostering a modern, intelligent, and environmentally responsible aviation ecosystem, aligned with national priorities and global development trends.

The signing forms part of a long-term strategic orientation to reduce carbon emissions across airport operations, contributing to the achievement of environmental, social, and governance objectives and the net-zero target by 2050.

It also aims to enhance the positioning of Vietnam’s airports as “green – smart” hubs, in line with Decision No. 876/QĐ-TTg dated July 22, 2022.

The two parties have agreed to collaborate in researching and implementing integrated solutions across multiple domains. These include the exploration of advanced energy technologies and the development of sustainable power supply models tailored to the stringent operational standards of airport infrastructure.

Both sides will develop infrastructure supporting electric mobility, including charging networks and associated utilities, ensuring alignment with operational demand. Green passenger transport solutions will also be explored and integrated within airport environments, contributing to enhanced operational efficiency and long-term value creation.

ACV and Vingroup will consider cooperation in developing a comprehensive service ecosystem within airport terminals. This may encompass commercial, retail, and passenger service models, with the dual objective of supporting strategic growth and elevating the overall passenger experience.

The two parties have further agreed to explore opportunities to prioritise the use of each other’s products and services within their respective ecosystems and affiliated entities. In addition, both sides will jointly study mechanisms and preferential policies to facilitate employee access to a wide range of essential services, including mobility, healthcare, education, hospitality, and commerce.

Tran Anh Vu, deputy general director of ACV, said, “The corporation places high value on the potential of this partnership in advancing green, smart, and modern airport development. The integration of capabilities, experience, and ecosystems between the two organisations is expected to unlock new opportunities to enhance service quality, support sustainable development objectives, and contribute to the modernisation of national aviation infrastructure in alignment with the government’s strategic direction on green growth and energy transition.”

Nguyen Viet Quang, vice chairman and CEO of Vingroup, said, “The comprehensive cooperation with ACV represents a significant milestone in boosting sustainable partnership models with leading institutions. Hopefully, Vingroup’s diversified ecosystem, spanning energy, infrastructure, technology–industry, and commercial services, will contribute to improving the quality and international standing of Vietnam’s aviation infrastructure, in close coordination with ACV towards shared green development goals.”

This strategic collaboration underscores not only the complementary strengths of two leading enterprises, but also a strong and enduring commitment to supporting Vietnam’s transition towards a greener world.

ACV proposes second runway at Long Thanh Internatinal Airport A proposal has been made to build a second runway at Long Thanh Airport and level the area for the T3 terminal to improve operational efficiency.

ACV begins cargo terminal construction at Danang Airport A new cargo terminal project has broken ground at Danang International Airport, as authorities move to ease congestion and upgrade air freight capacity in central Vietnam.

VinFast more than doubles 2025 revenue to $3.6 billion VinFast more than doubled annual revenue in 2025 to $3.6 billion, driven by record quarterly EV deliveries as the company strengthened its position in key markets.

Vietnam Airlines JSC is moving to secure its future long-haul capacity, seeking to acquire 12 widebody aircraft under dry lease arrangements for deliveries starting in late 2028.

The state-owned carrier is targeting a mix of Airbus A350-900XWB, Boeing 787-9, and Boeing 787-10 models. According to the airline’s fleet development plan, the aircraft will be utilised for an eight-year lease term to bolster its international network.

Principal or mandated agents interested in providing these aircraft are invited to submit detailed proposals to the carrier’s Fleet Development Office. Submissions must include aircraft specifications, available quantities, tentative delivery schedules, and indicative lease terms.

The airline intends to issue a formal request for proposals (RFP) in early April 2026. Following the initial intake of interest, Vietnam Airlines will contact eligible respondents with further instructions regarding the potential bidding process.

Key Takeaways for Financiers and Lessors:

Quantity: 12 widebody units.

Models: A350-900XWB, B787-9, B787-10.

Delivery Window: 2028–2030.

Lease Structure: Dry lease for 8 years.

Next Milestone: RFP issuance in April 2026.

Interested parties may contact the Fleet Development Office via email at lanhuynh@vietnamairlines.com, phuongnguyen@vietnamairlines.com, or myvnc@vietnamairlines.com.